Lasley to take charge of Steelmen for derby test

Keith L asley will lead Mother well into the Lanarkshire derby today, but the parting shot of Stephen Robinson could still be in the players’ minds.

Robinson challenged every player to examine whether they were doing enough after Wednesday’s 2- 0 Scottish Premiership defeat by Kilmarnock.

The Northern Irishman claimed some players had their heads turned and believed they were better than they are.

“People have to look in the mirror and give more,” he added.

“They have to find a way of winning football matches and that’s from working hard. Really, really working hard and committing 100% to things.”

Motherwell stated they would move “at pace” to replace Robinson, but Lasley, 41, is expected to get the chance to prove his credentials in the coming games.

He joined Motherwell in 1999 and returned in 2006 after a two- year spell in England.

The midfielder made 479 first team appearances in all and captained the club before becoming Robinson’s assistant in the summer of 2017.

Robinson gave his number two a seal of approval in his resignation statement when he said he was sure Motherwell would have a strong finish to the season “with the brilliant coaching staff currently there”.

Lasley would have been a natural successor if Robinson had got the Northern Ireland job in the summer, but Motherwell’s position near the foot of the table means there is little time for a new manager to bed in.

The Steelmen could go bottom if they lose at Hamilton today and they have only taken one point from their last three derby meetings.

● Jack Ross is glad his Hibernian players have the chance to quickly make amends following their surprise defeat to Ross County.

The Staggies left Easter Road on Wednesday night with three valuable Scottish Premier ship points following their 2-0 win.

It is the first time that the Leith side, who are in fourth place, have lost back-to-back league games this season.

Manager Ross wants his team to get back on track when in-form Livingston, who have won their last six matches in all competitions, visit today.

The former Sunderland and St Mirren boss told Hibs’ Youtube channel: “We haven’ t had many bumps this season but when we have had them we have responded well.

“The key thing now is how we react on Saturday to the disappointment.

“Most often when players have disappointments they want to get back to action as quickly as possible.

“This is a quick turnaround for us but I am pleased we have that, because there is a group of players there that have been very good for me.

“They are honest about their work and they know that they weren’ t good enough as a group ( on Wednesday).”

●Kilmarnock could hand a debut to Diaguely Dabo when they host St Mirren.

The 28- year- old former Steven age central midfielder signed for the club after impressing on trial.

Midfielder Gary Dicker and full-back Ross Millen remain out through injury.

St Mirren will be at full strength at Rugby Park.

Jim Good win’ steam came through Wednesday’s defeat to Rangers without sustaining any fresh knocks.

Interim Motherwell boss Keith Lasley.